Genesis 49:33
And when Jacob had made an end of commanding his sons, he gathered up his feet into the bed and yielded up the ghost, and was gathered unto his people.
This is an interesting passage. It’s as if he knew he was going to die, so he took care of the concluding business. He blessed his sons accordingly. He sat down in bed, pulled up his feet and died.
Wow. I don’t sense any anxiety. He doesn’t show any doubts. As I try to personalize this, I ask, “what would I do?” Part of me says that I would pray to ensure that all is well with my soul. However, that’s not what I believe. I know Christ has redeemed me. I would certainly pray, but not one of doubt. I would ask Him to guide me in my final days, hours or minutes. Then I would trust that He would direct these final moments. I like what Jacob did. He spent time with his family. He was leaving them and he gave them final encouragement and direction. I would love to reflect with my family about the wonderful times. I can’t say how profound my words would be, but I would love to encourage them. I wouldn’t want it to be dramatic, as I’ve never been that way.
I like Jacob’s confidence; no fear and no doubts. He has walked with God for a lifetime. He had made some mistakes, but he learned that God was still with Him. It would almost be like a long awaited homecoming. Much like if an immigrant was going to be reunited with the family from his place of origin. They hadn’t seen one another for a lifetime, but they were loved and respected. Now the ship had come in and the two parties were about to meet. That’s how it’s going to be. We will see Him who has carefully designed each of our days; kept us from evil and given us daily bread. We will finally see our Savior face to face; the only one capable of wresting our souls from our death sentence. That will be incredible. Jacob referenced that he would be buried with his wife, father, etc. We will also see those who have gone before us: mom, dad, brothers, grandparents and friends. Much like a soldier is welcomed home from war, so those on the other side will be glad to see us. Thank You, Lord for the confidence You give us. Help us to end well.